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I was wondering if Ford recommends that you change the oil drain plug on the 2.3 every oil change even though it isn't a plastic one.
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Changing Oil Drain Plug on 2.3L recommended?
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You should replace the crush washer on the bolt every oil change. I have never bothered, never had a leak out a threaded oil pan drain.
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I don't even think I have a washer on mine, but I probably should.
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Ok so it is just a crush washer that needs to be replace, thank you! I couldn't seem to find this info anywhere as everyone kept saying you have to replace it because of the 2.7.
the 2.3 doesn't have a crush washer on it, it's a silicon grommet on the inside of the head of the bolt. So unless your dealership (*cough*San Tan Ford*cough*) is using impacts to take it on and off, you shouldn't have to replace it.
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How many oil changes would you say when it would be time to replace it? Or is it just when the silicon grommet just is hard and brittle?
It is a permanent plug. Odds are that same plug will be still in the oil pan while the Bronco is in the scrap yard.
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When you notice it starting to drip in your driveway/garage.
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That is a good indicator isn't it
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They do not recommend replacing it with every oil change in the service manual.
@HotdogThud already mentioned this, but it has an integrated gasket/washer. Just inspect it for wear/cracking/etc. and replace if necessary. My 2013 Focus has a similar drain plug (may actually be the same part), and I've only had to replace it once in the 10+ years I've owned that car.
@HotdogThud already mentioned this, but it has an integrated gasket/washer. Just inspect it for wear/cracking/etc. and replace if necessary. My 2013 Focus has a similar drain plug (may actually be the same part), and I've only had to replace it once in the 10+ years I've owned that car.
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Where is it located at in the owner's manual, I looked and couldn't find it. AKA I am blind.
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Not in the user manual, it's in the service manual... which can be obtained here:
https://www.motorcraftservice.com/Purchase/ViewProduct
Or from Helm.
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Awesome thank you! I said I was blind and saw owner's manual not service manual.
Just proves it even more.
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I haven't changed mine yet, 4 oil changes in & 25k miles. Every time I change my oil, I just give it a nice cleaning & check the integrated green silicone gasket for pliability. Might change the plug just for the hell of it in a few years, since the material will eventually degrade.
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